Ventura's was recently remodeled. The addition of a huge working fireplace and new floors in that area is gorgeous. Menu is varied from sandwiches and pizza to steak, pork, and Italian. Noise level is high as the two dining areas are connected by the bar. The many tiffany-styled lamps are a pretty touch. Dress is casual. Reservations are not accepted.
The week night I was there, our party of five was seated within fifteen minutes. We were not informed of the specials this night and were not aware what they were until we saw them listed on a small chalk board by the desk ... Bummer.
We had appetizers of mussels marinara ($6.75) and coconut shrimp ($7.50 for 4) to share at the table. The mussels were served hot with mild marinara sauce(you could order red or white; hot or mild). The shrimp were no biggie ... on the heavy greasy side with little coconut flavor. Pizza bread (red and white dill) and regular Italian bread is a nice touch on the tables.
Entrees were a mixed bag ... one at the table even decided to have more mussels; this time served over penne pasta ($13.25); again a huge portion which couldn't be finished! Eggplant Parmigiana served with the diner's choice of linguini was mild, served hot, and not over-breaded ($11.95). Vegetable stir-fry and pasta ($11.95) included zucchini, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, broccoli, and yellow squash in a white wine sauce over pasta. Menu claims shitake mushrooms but we found none (it was a good dish though and extremely ample portion). Chicken Parmigiana served with a side of pasta was just that. Reasonable ($13.75) but no biggie. Sauces were all good.
I experienced a wonderful salad as my choice. Ensalada Portifino ($8.95) was a mix of crisp fresh baby greens and spinach, port wine pears, crumbled Gorganzola cheese, candied walnuts, plum tomatoes, with a strawberry vinaigrette! Even garnished with sliced strawberries! Yummmm. Service was good and friendly.
